National demonstration date set for 20 October

Across the country, UNISON members will today start months of planning for a mass demonstration against the government’s failed politics of austerity, set to take place in London on Saturday 20 October 2012.

Tens of thousands of UNISON members will make the journey to the capital to march under the heading, “A Future That Works” to show their opposition to the government’s pro-austerity, anti-growth policies. The march will end with a rally in Hyde Park.

Dave Prentis, UNISON general secretary, said:

“In October, a sea of purple and green will make its way through London’s streets. But it will not just be UNISON members who take to their feet. All across the country, people are learning the hard way that cuts are not the cure.

“Millions are unemployed, with women and young people hit hardest. Growth has stalled and we are back in recession – austerity is standing in the way of delivering the jobs and growth our country needs. Our march in October will send the government a strong message that we don’t just want an alternative economic plan – we want a future that works.”